How to Get the Pole in Animal Crossing: A Comprehensive Guide to Crossing Rivers and Beyond

How to Get the Pole in Animal Crossing: A Comprehensive Guide to Crossing Rivers and Beyond

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that thrives on exploration, creativity, and community. One of the most essential tools for navigating your island is the vaulting pole, which allows you to cross rivers and access previously unreachable areas. But how do you get this crucial item? And what are some creative ways to use it once you have it? Let’s dive into the world of Animal Crossing and uncover the secrets of the vaulting pole.


1. The Basics: How to Obtain the Vaulting Pole

The vaulting pole is not something you start the game with. Instead, it’s a tool you’ll need to craft. Here’s how to get it:

  • Unlock Blathers’ Museum Tent: Early in the game, you’ll meet Tom Nook, who will ask you to gather creatures for the island’s new museum. Once you’ve donated five creatures, Blathers will arrive and set up his tent. This is a crucial step because Blathers is the one who gives you the DIY recipe for the vaulting pole.

  • Speak to Blathers: After setting up his tent, talk to Blathers. He’ll explain the importance of exploring the island and will give you the recipe for the vaulting pole.

  • Gather Materials: To craft the vaulting pole, you’ll need 5 softwood. Softwood can be obtained by hitting trees with a flimsy axe or stone axe. If you don’t have an axe yet, you can craft one using tree branches and stones.

  • Craft the Pole: Once you have the materials, head to a DIY workbench and craft your vaulting pole. Congratulations! You’re now ready to explore every corner of your island.


2. Why the Vaulting Pole is a Game-Changer

The vaulting pole might seem like a simple tool, but it opens up a world of possibilities:

  • Access to New Areas: Rivers divide your island into sections, and without the vaulting pole, you’re limited to just one area. With the pole, you can explore the entire island, gather resources, and discover new creatures.

  • Fishing Opportunities: Some of the rarest fish can only be found in specific river locations. The vaulting pole allows you to reach these spots and expand your fishing collection.

  • Island Design: As you progress in the game, you’ll gain the ability to terraform your island. The vaulting pole is essential for scouting out potential locations for bridges, waterfalls, and other features.


3. Creative Uses for the Vaulting Pole

Once you have the vaulting pole, don’t just use it for crossing rivers. Here are some creative ways to make the most of this tool:

  • Speedrunning Across the Island: Instead of taking the long way around, use the vaulting pole to jump over rivers and save time. This is especially useful when you’re in a hurry to catch a rare bug or fish.

  • Creating Obstacle Courses: If you’re hosting a multiplayer event, consider designing an obstacle course that requires players to use the vaulting pole. It’s a fun way to challenge your friends and add some excitement to your island.

  • Role-Playing Adventures: Imagine your character is an explorer or adventurer. Use the vaulting pole to “discover” new parts of your island, complete with a journal or map to document your findings.


4. Advanced Tips for Vaulting Pole Mastery

Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are some advanced tips to take your vaulting pole skills to the next level:

  • Customize Your Pole: While the vaulting pole itself can’t be customized, you can create a themed area on your island where the pole is stored. For example, set up a “tool shed” near the river with a custom design sign that says “Vaulting Pole Station.”

  • Combine with Other Tools: The vaulting pole works best when used in conjunction with other tools. For example, use a ladder to climb cliffs and then a vaulting pole to cross rivers. This combination allows you to explore even the most remote areas of your island.

  • Share with Friends: If you’re playing with friends who are new to the game, consider crafting an extra vaulting pole and gifting it to them. It’s a thoughtful way to help them explore their island and enjoy the game to its fullest.


5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I buy a vaulting pole from the store?
A: No, the vaulting pole is a DIY item that you must craft yourself. It cannot be purchased from Nook’s Cranny or any other store.

Q: What happens if I lose my vaulting pole?
A: Don’t worry! If you lose your vaulting pole, you can always craft another one as long as you have the recipe and the necessary materials.

Q: Can I use the vaulting pole to cross oceans?
A: No, the vaulting pole only works for crossing rivers. To explore other islands, you’ll need to use a Nook Miles Ticket and travel by plane.

Q: Is there a golden vaulting pole?
A: As of now, there is no golden version of the vaulting pole. However, there are golden versions of other tools, such as the shovel and fishing rod, which you can unlock later in the game.


The vaulting pole is more than just a tool—it’s a symbol of freedom and exploration in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Whether you’re using it to cross rivers, design your island, or create fun challenges for your friends, the vaulting pole is an essential part of your island life. So grab your pole, take a leap, and discover all the wonders your island has to offer!